A club statement said Nicot "fought like a bear" and was the "idol of our supporters".

It described him as "always in a good mood, always making time for an umpteenth selfie with a fan".

Three years ago Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba, then 23, suffered a cardiac arrest in an FA Cup game with Tottenham. He was "in effect dead" for 78 minutes but survived, although he never played again.

Nicot's team-mate Wesley Snoeys said: "So many questions. Always the same question comes up: why why why? You left us far too soon. I will never forget you. Forever in my heart."

Jef Snyders, another Wilrijk-Beerschot player, added: "Football will never be the same anymore. Rest in peace mate."